1985 Penny Error List & Coin Value

The 1985 penny error varieties represent some of the most fascinating finds in modern coin collecting. This year marked the early era of zinc-core penny production, creating unique opportunities for valuable minting mistakes.

Accurate identification is crucial for coin collectors because many 1985 errors are subtle and easily overlooked. The difference between a common penny and a rare error can mean hundreds of dollars in value.

Coin value apps like CoinKnow can help you identify these errors instantly, provide professional grading, and determine accurate market values. Let's explore the documented errors worth searching for in your collection.

 

Rare 1985 Penny Error List & Coin Value

1. 1985-D Penny Brass-Plated Error

The brass-plated error is exclusive to Denver Mint pennies from 1985. These coins received yellow brass plating instead of the standard copper coating during production.

The U.S. Mint Assay Department confirmed these were struck on yellowish brass-plated planchets rather than normal red copper-plated blanks. This makes them officially recognized mint errors.

These distinctive golden-colored pennies are immediately recognizable to collectors. Values typically range from $25 to $50 in uncirculated condition.

Look for pennies with an unusual yellow or gold tint rather than the typical copper red. The color difference is obvious when compared to a normal 1985-D penny.

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2. 1985 Penny Unplated Zinc Planchet Error

This dramatic error occurs when a penny is struck on a zinc planchet that has completely missed the copper plating process. The result is a silvery-gray colored coin instead of the familiar copper appearance.

Authentic, unplated cents generally weigh between 2.42 and 2.48 grams. They should display smooth surfaces with fine streaks from the planchet preparation process.

Values for genuine unplated 1985 pennies range from $50 to $150 or more depending on condition. Authentication is crucial because many altered coins mimic this appearance.

Be cautious of chemically stripped pennies that may look similar. Genuine examples have clear die-struck designs without the softening that occurs with de-plating.

A reliable coin value app can help distinguish authentic mint errors from damaged or altered coins.

 

3. 1985 Penny Partial Plating Exposure Error

Partial plating errors show areas where the copper coating is incomplete or missing. These coins reveal the gray zinc core beneath the copper surface.

One documented 1985 Philadelphia example with zinc visible over Lincoln's head sold for $550 at auction. This demonstrates the significant value these errors can achieve.

Look for coins with patches of gray zinc showing through the copper surface. The exposed areas should have sharp design details, indicating the error occurred during production.

Values range from $50 to over $500 depending on the size and location of the exposure. More dramatic examples command higher premiums.

 

4. 1985-D Penny Repunched Mintmark Error

During 1985, the U.S. Mint still hand-punched mintmarks into individual working dies. This manual process occasionally produced repunched mintmark varieties.

The 1985-D/D RPM shows the mintmark shifted to the west. These varieties are considered scarce to rare among collectors.

Values for confirmed RPM varieties range from $25 to $45 in red uncirculated grades. The premium depends on the strength and visibility of the repunching.

Examine the "D" mintmark carefully under magnification. Look for traces of a secondary mintmark position near the primary letter.

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5. 1985 Penny Doubled Die Error

Several doubled die varieties exist for 1985 pennies showing light doubling in the lettering and date. These occur when the die receives multiple impressions during production.

Values typically range from $20 to $50 depending on the magnitude of doubling and overall coin condition. Stronger doubling commands higher premiums.

Focus your examination on the date, LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST inscriptions. True doubled dies show raised, separated doubling rather than flat shelf-like machine doubling.

 

6. 1985 Penny Off-Center Strike Error

Off-center strikes happen when the planchet isn't properly positioned during striking. Part of the design appears missing with blank planchet showing.

The most valuable examples are approximately 50% off-center while still displaying a complete date and mintmark. These typically sell for $50 to $100.

Less dramatic off-center errors under 10% are more common and worth $10 to $20. Coins missing the date bring significantly lower premiums.

 

7. 1985 Penny Broadstrike Error

Broadstrike errors occur when a penny is struck outside its retaining collar. The coin appears flatter and wider than normal without proper rim formation.

These errors are uncommon but not extremely rare. Values typically range from $10 to $20 for well-centered examples.

The coin should retain all design elements but appear expanded outward. Compare the diameter to a normal penny to confirm the broadstrike.

 

8. 1985 Penny BIE Error

The BIE error is a popular die crack variety unique to Lincoln pennies. A vertical crack between the "B" and "E" of LIBERTY resembles the letter "I."

These errors are relatively common and affordable for beginning collectors. Values typically range from $5 to $10 each.

Many collectors enjoy hunting for BIE errors by date. They represent an accessible entry point into error coin collecting.

 

How Much is a 1985 Penny Worth? Coin Identifier I Recommended

Determining accurate values for 1985 penny errors requires proper identification and authentication. Two excellent apps can assist collectors in this process.

CoinKnow provides exceptional accuracy for error coin identification using advanced AI technology. The app instantly detects brass-plated errors, doubled dies, and plating anomalies while delivering professional grading assessments and real-time market valuations for informed collecting decisions.

CoinValueChecker offers comprehensive analysis tools for serious numismatists seeking detailed error detection. The app features market trend analysis, auction monitoring, and collection management capabilities, making it ideal for collectors wanting both identification and sophisticated market intelligence in one platform.

Both apps represent valuable resources for any collector serious about finding and valuing 1985 penny errors accurately.